Matthew MartinHometown: Rockport, Ind.Education: B.A. from Wesleyan in history education, M.A. from Western Kentucky University in school counselingTeaches U.S. History at South Spencer Middle School

Elizabeth grew up down the street from Kentucky Wesleyan and began attending Panther basketball games as a child. She says there was a never question about where to attend college. “I was attracted to the small class sizes and the excellent reputation of the Science Department faculty,” she explains. “I wanted to experience what Wesleyan had to offer. The College gave me the tools and confidence I needed to attend graduate school, pursue my optometry degree and enter the business in which I am now a partner. I learned at IU that I was better prepared for the challenges of optometry school than other classmates who attended larger institutions. The individual attention made such a difference.”

She joined the Kentucky Wesleyan Board of Trustees in 2015. “I was honored to join and have the opportunity to give back and be involved.”

Matt says his Wesleyan experience was superior. “I am very grateful to the education faculty, who prepared me well to pursue my master’s degree and for my career in the classroom,” he shares. “I also played baseball, and I am thankful for the lifelong friends I made on the team. But most of all, I’m thankful that I met my wife during my Wesleyan years!”

Both Elizabeth and Matt emphasize that their professors were very encouraging and began preparing them for the next steps in their lives from day one on campus.

Elizabeth adds that she experienced The Wesleyan Way as a 10-year-old ball girl for the women’s basketball team. “They were such good examples to me. They allowed me to join them for pregame meals, and the ENTIRE TEAM showed up one Saturday morning for my own game at the Boys and Girls Club. They made a lasting impact on a young kid!”